In the late 1970s an incredible new video technology debuted. Originally called Discovision, it delivered high resolution movies on an optical platter roughly the size of an LP. Although it was an analog medium, movies frequently included a digital audio track (typically 3 channel DTS) along-side the stereo analog track.
LaserDisc was significantly more expensive — and delicate — than VHS and BetaMax, with which it competed, but until the DVD format came out commercially in 1996 (in Japan, ’97 in the US and Canada) it was unrivaled for video quality. Although it mostly disappeared by the 90s, it still had a niche with serious videophiles — and karaokee bars.
Pictured here is a 2009 model Blu-ray player, the great-grandchild of the LaserDisc, sitting atop a late-model LaserDisc player. They’re connected by a late 90s DTS stereo receiver and a mid 2000s LCD HDTV, controlled by a Harmony Universal Remote control. 3 decades of cutting edge home theater technology working together beautifully.
A geeky tear might have welled up in my eye when it all started talking to each other.
Nice set up, but your missing the 1980’s wooden speakers with the wooden grates in the front. That would complete your system with a piece of equipment from each decade we’ve been alive. Brooke’s dad has his old wooden Bose speakers. “Top of the line in their day” he always says. Maybe hell sell one to ya.
p.s. maybe someday well get up there to see it in person. Doesn’t look like it will be anytime soon though… maybe after the baby is born.
Actually, I’m going for MiniDisc as my 1980s technology. I’m happy with my late 90s speakers :-p